Brenda Gael Smith

About my artwork

I create textile paintings and sketches made from a rich palette of my hand-dyed fabrics complemented by extensive, textural stitching demonstrating the transformative power of stitch. Abstraction is a persistent and insistent force. Working improvisationally, I capture the essence of my subjects to impart a sense of wonder of the natural world and a strong affinity to place.

Daily walks are a creative habit integral to my studio practice whether I am home or travelling. By closely observing my surroundings, and taking hundreds of photos, I have a bountiful inspiration bank that informs my work. I also embrace the serendipity factor. From the dye pot, to the design wall, to the sewing machine, I am always open to the possibility of a glorious accident.

On Exhibition

• Art Quilt Australia 2021: at Yarra Ranges Regional Museum at Lilydale, Victoria from 7 August to 27 February 2022.
• Quilts=Art=Quilts Schweinfurth Art Center, Auburn, NY to 9 January 2022
• Fur Fangs Feathers & Fins premiere at Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum 2 April to 17 June 2022 (SAQA Global Exhibition)
• Australia Wide Seven at The National Quilt Museum, Paducah, Kentucky, USA 4 March to 19 July 2022
• Distance & Diversity (SAQA Oceania Exhibition) at Fullerton Park Community Centre, Unley, South Australia 6 May – 29 May 2022